Differences between clincher, folding and tubeless tires
The different types of bicycle tires - clincher, folding and tubeless tires - each have specific characteristics and uses that are due to their design and function. Here are the main differences and characteristics:
Clincher
Characteristics:
- Structure: There is a wire in the tire bead that gives the tire its name and holds it to the rim hook.
- Weight: Higher weight compared to folding tires.
- Compatibility: Optimized for use with conventional tubes and rims.
- Puncture protection: Often provided with a reinforcing rubber layer.
- Price: Cheaper than folding tires.
Advantages:
- Cheap price.
- Large selection.
- Easy installation on conventional rims.
Disadvantages:
- Heavier weight.
- Not foldable.
- Usually not tubeless compatible.
Folding tires
Characteristics:
- Construction: Instead of a wire, flexible aramid fibers (e.g. Kevlar) are used in the bead, which makes the tire foldable.
- Weight: Lighter than clincher tires, with a weight saving of about 50-100 grams.
- Compatibility: Can be used with both tubes and tubeless if marked “Tubeless ready”.
- Performance: Better driving characteristics due to the lower weight.
Advantages:
- Lower weight.
- Improved driving characteristics.
- Easier to transport because it is foldable.
- Mostly tubeless compatible.
Disadvantages:
- More complex assembly for “tubeless ready” models.
- More expensive than clincher tires.
Tubeless tires
Characteristics:
- Construction: No tube required; the tire seals together with the rim.
- Compatibility: Tires and rims must be marked as tubeless compatible (Tubeless ready, TLR).
- Sealant: Use of sealant to seal small holes while driving.
Advantages:
- Very good puncture protection, as no tube defects (e.g. snakebites) occur.
- Lower weight as the hose is eliminated (up to 200 grams saved).
- Best possible driving characteristics due to lower rolling resistance and the ability to drive with lower air pressure.
Disadvantages:
- More complex conversion and assembly.
- Regular maintenance required (replacement of sealant).
Conclusion of the comparison
- Clincher tires: Ideal for everyday bikes and e-bikes in the entry-level and mid-range range, where robustness and low price are more important than weight.
- Folding tires: Better suited for sporty riders who value low weight and high performance. Usually also tubeless compatible, which offers additional advantages.
- Tubeless: Particularly advantageous for ambitious mountain bikers and riders who want to benefit from the best riding characteristics and very good puncture protection, but are willing to accept the higher maintenance costs.
The choice of tire type depends largely on the individual requirements and the area of use of the bike.